Are you planning to participate in a video interview? You likely want to come across as polished and professional. We’re here to help you navigate the world of remote interviews using Zoom.

This checklist provides essential tips and recommendations to ensure you’re well-prepared for your interview and that the footage is optimized for video production. We’ve covered everything from setting up your environment to mastering interview techniques. Let’s dive in!

Select the Right Location for Your Video

Here’s how to select a location that looks polished and professional.

• Choose a room with natural light. Whenever possible, select a room with natural light for your interview. When looking at the screen, position your computer so your face is toward a window. This will provide flattering, even lighting and eliminate unflattering shadows. Or invest in lighting designed for Zoom video shoots.
• Tidy your background. Ensure your background is clean, uncluttered, and professional. A blank wall is a safe choice, but you can add visual interest by placing a potted plant or a piece of artwork behind you. Avoid backgrounds with windows, mirrors, televisions, or clocks, as they can be distracting.
• Select the right chair. Choose a chair without wheels to avoid the temptation to rock, pivot, or roll during the interview. A stationary chair will help you maintain a stable, professional presence on camera.

Camera Requirements for Professional-Looking Videos

Avoid the standard errors of shooting a video using a smartphone or laptop.

• Invest in a high-quality camera. While most laptops have built-in cameras, their quality can be limited. When capturing interviews for video content, consider investing in a high-quality external camera with HD or 4K resolution, color accuracy, and low-light performance. This will ensure that the captured footage is suitable for professional video production. One recommended option is the Logitech C922x Pro Stream Webcam.
• Consider a combination camera/microphone device. You can use a high-quality combination camera and microphone device for an all-in-one solution. These devices simplify your setup and ensure excellent video and audio quality. One top option is the Logitech Brio 4K Webcam.

Optimize Audio Quality

Make sure you are heard clearly by your audience.

• Use an external microphone. For the best audio quality, use a high-quality external USB microphone. One highly recommended option is the Blue Yeti USB Microphone with or without a table arm boom.
• Leverage wireless earbuds or a built-in microphone. If you don’t have an external microphone, you can use wireless earbuds with a built-in mic, such as Apple AirPods Pro. As a last resort, you can use your computer’s integrated microphone, but be aware that the audio quality may not be as high as with an external microphone.

Select Attractive Video Lighting

The right lighting is critical for professional videos.

• Natural lighting. As mentioned earlier, natural lighting is the most flattering for video interviews. Face a window to ensure even, natural light on your face.
• Supplemental lighting. If natural light is unavailable, consider purchasing a clip-on light for your computer or a ring light. One recommended option includes the Lume Cube Video Conference Lighting Kit.

Technical Setup and Testing

A critical component of quality video content is equipment set up and testing.

• Test your equipment. Before the interview, test your internet connection, camera, microphone, and lighting setup to avoid last-minute technical issues. Ensure your internet speed is at least 1.5 Mbps for high-quality video streaming.
• Familiarize yourself with Zoom. Explore Zoom’s features, such as virtual backgrounds, touch-up appearance settings, and recording functions. Being comfortable with the platform will boost your confidence during the interview.
• Adjust your video settings. Launch the Zoom Desktop Client, click your profile picture, and choose “Settings” followed by “Video.” Ensure that “HD” is checked and “Adjust for low light” is set to Auto. If you’re using an external camera, select it as the video source in the settings.

Proper Body Language and Posture for Videos

How you move and express yourself is central to engaging your video interview audience.

• Maintain good posture. Sit up straight with relaxed shoulders to convey confidence and professionalism on camera. Avoid slouching or leaning too far back in your chair.
• Use appropriate gestures. Use natural, purposeful hand gestures to emphasize points and engage your audience. Be mindful not to overdo it, as excessive gestures can be distracting.

Control Distractions when Filming Your Interview

Staying focused will keep your audience focused.

• Minimize notifications and noise. Silence your phone and computer notifications to avoid interruptions. Close unnecessary applications and browser tabs to minimize the risk of distracting pop-ups or sounds.
• Inform others about your interview. If interviewing from home or a shared office, inform others about the interview and ask them to minimize noise and interruptions. Consider placing a note on your door as a reminder.

Dress Appropriately for Your Video

Looking like a professional will help you build viewer trust.

• Dress professionally. Choose clothing that reflects your everyday professional attire. Solid colors work well on camera, but avoid stark white or black.
• Avoid distracting patterns and logos. Tiny stripes, checks, or busy patterns can interfere with the camera. Also, avoid clothing with prominent logos or trademarked symbols.

Practice Sound Video Interview Techniques

Use the tactics professionals do to deliver your messages effectively.

• Make eye contact. When recording an interview, connecting with your audience is crucial. Look directly at the camera, not your image, to create the illusion of eye contact with the viewer. Doing so will help you better engage with your video audience.
• Smile and be engaging. Begin with a warm welcome and smile to set a positive tone. Smiling will make you appear more approachable and engaged, enhancing your on-camera presence.
• Pause, rephrase, answer, and conclude. When asked a question, pause briefly to collect your thoughts and allow for editing. Rephrase the question in your answer to provide context, then give a detailed, comprehensive response. Conclude with a concise summary to reinforce your main points.
• Use anecdotes and examples. When answering questions, use personal anecdotes or real-life examples to illustrate your points. This helps make your content more relatable and engaging for the audience, as they can better understand and connect with your experiences.
• Show enthusiasm. Convey your passion for the topic through tone, facial expressions, and body language. Enthusiasm is contagious and can help keep your audience engaged and interested in your words.
• Be authentic. Audiences appreciate authenticity, so don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Be yourself, and speak in a natural, conversational tone to create a more genuine and relatable experience for your viewers.
• Focus on passion, not perfection. Remember, your interview will be edited before being used in the final video content. Don’t worry if you stumble or make a mistake. Simply pause, take a breath, and start again from the beginning of your thought. Your passion and expertise are more important than perfect delivery, and our video production team will ensure that the final product is polished and professional.

By following these guidelines and investing in the right equipment, you’ll be well-prepared to capture high-quality footage through your remote Zoom interview. This footage will be instrumental in creating engaging video content that effectively represents your brand and connects with your clients and prospects. Remember, our team is here to support you throughout the process, from the initial interview to the final video production, to ensure optimal results.

Ready to elevate your brand and connect with your target audience through engaging video content? Schedule a free strategy session to discuss how we can help you showcase your expertise, promote your products or services, and share your brand’s story in a compelling way.

Dan Sondhelm is the CEO of Sondhelm Partners, a firm dedicated to helping boutique asset managers grow their businesses, strengthen institutional credibility, and build influential brands.